Macrophytes Diversity of Some Selected Water Bodies of Wamakko Local Government; Sokoto State

ABSTRACT
This study examines the diversity of macrophytes in two key water bodies of Wamakko Local government; Sokoto State River Rima and Kandole Shella Stream. Macrophytes—vital components of aquatic ecosystems—enhance water quality, stabilize sediments, and provide habitats for various aquatic species. The Study aimed to identify and compare macrophyte species in both water bodies, investigating how environmental factors influence their distribution and diversity. Field surveys and taxonomic identification methods were employed to catalog species, and diversity indices were computed to assess species richness and distribution patterns. The results highlighted distinct variations in macrophyte diversity between River Rima and Kandole Stream. River Rima, characterized by higher nutrient inflow and a relatively stable flow, exhibited a broader range of macrophyte species, including dominant types like Typha domingensis, Eichhornia crassipes, and Cyperus papyrus. In contrast, Kandole Shella Stream, impacted by periodic flow variation and higher human activity, showed lower species diversity, with a predominance of resilient species like Nymphaea lotus and Phragmites australis. This study demonstrates the importance of monitoring and managing these aquatic habitats, as the health of macrophyte communities is directly tied to the overall ecological integrity of the region. Findings provide a baseline for conservation strategies and future studies on the ecological health of Sokoto’s aquatic ecosystems.